Hernia |
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DESCRIPTION
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A hernia (HER-nee-uh) develops when a part of your inner organs pushes through a hole or a weak part of a nearby muscle. There is swelling or a lump at the place where this occurs. Most hernias are in the belly or groin.
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CAUSES
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The weak area or hole in the muscle wall may have been present since birth. The weakness can also develop in later life as a result of surgery, straining at bowel movements, or just getting older. Pregnancy, coughing hard, or excess weight can also lead to a hernia.
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SYMPTOMS
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Typically, there is a swelling or lump in the abdomen or groin that sometimes hurts. The lump usually disappears when you lie down or gently push on it. There may be painful swelling in the area of the testicles. You may have a hard time moving your bowels. Vomiting is a rare--but dangerous--sign.
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CARE
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You may be given something to wear to keep the lump from pushing out, or you may need surgery to fix the problem. You can use over-the-counter pain-killers for minor pain.
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COMPLICATIONS
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s Without treatment, the hernia could become strangulated (lose its blood supply). This can cause a blockage in the intestines that produces fever and vomiting, and may even prove fatal.
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